Cabbage with Lobsters Appetizer Plate - Bordallo Pinheiro

Description

Bordallo Pinheiro "Cabbage with Lobsters" Plate: Product Features

The lobster appears to take up nearly the entire surface. Painted in bright red with dark shading on the claws and carapace, the segmented legs—each rendered in relief—serve as dividers for appetizers. Below, the green cabbage leaf defines the inner and outer contours of the plate, which follows the natural undulation of the leaf’s edge rather than forming a regular circle. This has been Bordallo Pinheiro’s signature style since the 19th century: taking a subject from the farmyard or the harbor and treating it with the same care reserved for the finest porcelain. Measuring 36.7 cm / 14.45 in in length, it ranks among the “large” sizes in the line, suitable for more generous starter courses or shared vegetable platters placed in the center of the table.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The body is made of faience, the traditional Portuguese ceramic, cast in a mold and then finished and hand-painted by artisans at the Caldas da Rainha factory, with lobster red applied by brush to cover every single anatomical detail. The slight variations in tone from piece to piece are not a flaw but rather a testament to a craftsmanship process that never produces two identical pieces under the same brush. This results in small irregularities along the rim and in the relief, which are part of the piece’s identity.

What are the dimensions, weight, and capacity of the Cabbage Lobster appetizer plate?

The plate measures 36.7 cm / 14.45 in in length, 32.6 cm / 12.83 in wide, and 11.7 cm / 4.61 in tall, weighing 2.015 kg / 4.44 lb and holding 75 cl / 25.36 fl oz.

At the table: from seafood appetizers to festive gatherings

Its association with lobster makes it a natural choice for raw seafood, tartare, and seafood appetizers, but its large surface area is equally well-suited for vegetarian arrangements or an assortment of cheeses. In a restaurant or hotel setting, it serves as an appetizer plate for special occasions, where its sculptural relief becomes part of the presentation.

Is it also suitable for professional use in restaurants or hotels?

Yes, the durability of the ceramic and its generous size make it suitable for use both at home and in restaurants, hotels, and catering settings, where its striking decorative character adds personality to the table.